Riverside Pro Soccer is hosting a series of free World Cup watch parties this week, using Team USA's run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup as an entry point for building community around the city's future professional soccer club.
The three-event series, held in partnership with Route 30 Brewing and The Barn at UCR, gives residents a chance to watch matches, meet the organization's leadership and weigh in on what the club will look like when it takes the field.
"Our goal is to create experiences that bring people together while showcasing the role sports can play in strengthening community identity," said Greg Scott, founder of Riverside Pro Soccer. "The World Cup provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the growth of the game while introducing more people to the vision we are building here in Riverside."
The first event is Friday, June 12 at 6 p.m. at Route 30 Brewing, 11620 Sterling Ave. Attendees can watch the United States' opening World Cup match alongside local vendors, soccer activities and giveaways. Organizers will also take community feedback on the club's future identity, including team colors.
The second event, June 19, also at Route 30 Brewing, doubles as a business mixer co-hosted with the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce. A panel titled "How Sports Unite and Shape Cities" runs from 11:15 a.m. to noon, featuring Scott, Dave Siegel, a former Los Angeles Dodgers vice president and former CEO of the LA Sports Council, and Tim Cupello, head soccer coach at UC Riverside. The USA-Australia match follows.
The series closes June 25 at The Barn at UCR, 3581 University Ave., doors at 6 p.m. Organizers are billing it as the largest event of the three, with expanded vendor and community partner activations for the United States' final group stage match.
Fans who attend all three events qualify for a yet to be announced exclusive experience. A passport system will track attendance.
Riverside Pro Soccer announced a partnership with the United Soccer League last fall to bring professional men's and women's soccer to the city. Plans call for a soccer-specific stadium starting at 5,000 seats with capacity to expand to 15,000.
More information: All events are free. Registration is available at Eventbrite. For more information, visit rivprosoccer.com or follow @rivprosoccer on Instagram.
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